Introduction

Anamudi Shola National Park in Kerala is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Idukki (Munnar) district, Anamudi Shola National Park preserves rare high-altitude Shola forest patch ecosystems in the Western Ghats.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateKerala
DistrictsIdukki (Munnar)
Year of Notification2003
Total Area7.5 sq km
LandscapeHigh-altitude Shola evergreen forest stunted trees surrounded by rolling grasslands.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesPambar River tributaries flowing towards Chinnar
Nearest AirportCochin International Airport (COK) – 125 km
Nearest Railway StationAluva Railway Station (AWY) – 130 km / Udumalaipettai (55 km)
Best Time to VisitOctober to March

Location

The national park lies in the Idukki (Munnar) region of Kerala. On Munnar-Marayoor road.

History

Notified in November 2003 to conserve unique high-altitude Shola cloud forests surrounding Anamudi Peak.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an expansive area of 7.5 sq km, the park’s terrain features High-altitude Shola evergreen forest stunted trees surrounded by rolling grasslands.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: High-altitude Shola evergreen forest stunted trees surrounded by rolling grasslands.

Fauna

Primary Mammals & Key Species: Nilgiri Tahr, Asian Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Gaur, Flying Squirrel, Nilgiri Langur, and Hanuman Langur.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Avifauna & Bird Species: Endemic Shola species including Nilgiri Pipit, Kerala Laughingthrush, White-bellied Blue Robin, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and Black-and-orange Flycatcher.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Anamudi Shola National Park is sustained by: Pambar River tributaries flowing towards Chinnar.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Munnar Hill Station (35 km), Marayoor Sandalwood Forests (15 km), Kanthalloor Orchards (10 km).

Weather & Climate

Cool mountain climate (8°C to 22°C).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – 125 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (AWY) – 130 km / Udumalaipettai (55 km)
  • Road Connectivity: On Munnar-Marayoor road.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Anamudi Shola National Park is from October to March.

Accommodation

Kerala Forest Eco-lodges at Kanthalloor, Hotels in Munnar.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.

Conservation Highlights

UNESCO Western Ghats heritage cluster preserving ancient dwarf Shola trees.

Visitor Tips

Visit Kanthalloor village famous for organic apple and orange orchards.

Did You Know?

  • Protects unique stunted ‘Shola’ cloud forest dwarf trees draped in mosses and orchids.
  • Forms part of the High Range mountain ecosystem around Munnar.
  • Habitat for endemic birds like the White-bellied Blue Robin.

Last Updated: August 2026